Pat Reither Memorial

Patricia “Pat” Reither, a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and aunt passed away in her sleep on Saturday, April 23rd, 2022 in Lakewood, CO at age 85. She grew up in Denver, CO and graduated from Colorado State University with a bachelor's degree in Education and taught physical education. At Colorado State University she met her future husband, Robert “Bob” Reither, from Derby, CO. They married in 1963 and had two children, Jodie (Reither) Hamilton and Robert Reither.

She was a lifelong learner and had a true passion for books. She was an avid reader and often read 65 to 70 books a year. She believed in children's education and promoted reading whenever she had the opportunity. She was always excited to talk about the current book she was reading and willing to share the title of her current favorite book. She also discovered a love for painting. She perfected the art of painting roses on everything from small wood wall hangings and valences to carousel horses that filled the house with beauty. She referred to her house as the “house of roses.”

She was also an active member of the community throughout her lifetime and volunteered to serve on many committees that helped make Brighton a better community. She was Brighton’s local Historian and volunteered for the Brighton Historical Commission. On behalf of the Commission, she researched the history of the Town of Brighton as well as individual people and properties throughout the town and the surrounding areas. She used this information to not only protect vital pieces and properties of Brighton’s history for future generations, but also to help compile a history book, “History of Brighton and Surrounding Area 1887-1987” for the city of Brighton detailing Brighton’s History for Future generations. Pat also interviewed local residents and researched historic Brighton characters, and wrote a historical column for the Local Color, a Brighton magazine.

In 2020 Pat moved in with her son and his family in Lakewood, CO where she became known by the entire neighborhood as “Grandma Pat.” She was always pleased with how many kids said “Hello Grandma Pat” as she walked around the neighborhood.

Pat’s preference was not to have a service, but rather to have people celebrate her beautiful life. Those who wish to remember Pat in a special way may donate in her name to the GoFundMe memorial fund where the proceeds will be donated to the local library and/or Brighton Historical Commission.

She touched so many lives in a positive way. She will be missed.